8. Matt Gets It

September 10, 1955 - Written by Charles Marquis Warren, Story by John Meston, Directed by Charles Marquis Warren, Assistant Director Glenn Cook, Guest Cast: Paul Richards, Robert Anderson, Malcolm Atterbury. Introduction of the first episode: John Wayne.

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This is the premier episode of Gunsmoke on television. John Wayne introduces it. The acting is stilted and the direction awkward. Nevertheless, this episode defines Gunsmoke. Dan Grat, a gunfighter faster that Matt, shoots Dillon in the first confrontation. Have you ever wondered why Dillon shoots second in the introductory scene of Gunsmoke? This episode explains why.